That’s odd… on my ‘83 (RQB3655), the fuel outlet is bottom dead center of the fuel tank… exactly like earlier Avantis .., There is also a factory drain plug in the fuel line located approximately under center of passenger door.
I always use them with no problems…Thr correct install is shown in your second photo. I tighten the pal nuts by feel… Once they rub against rod nut I give them about another 1/3 turn.